The summer of 2025 has been a period of transformation for West Bromwich Albion. Fresh off a turbulent season, a change in the managerial seat saw Ryan Mason arrive from Tottenham Hotspur, bringing a youthful energy and a vision for the club. After a ninth-placed finish last season, missing the play-off places by only four points, the Baggies are focused on shaking up their squad in hopes of returning to Premier League football for the first time since 2021. Mason’s appointment signals a fresh start. West Brom supporters anticipate a dynamic style of play and smarter recruitment, with the new manager keen to build a side capable of challenging for promotion.
Key Arrivals: Strengthening the Squad
West Brom’s transfer business began with defensive reinforcements. Nat Phillips joined from Liverpool for around £3million, a move designed to add experience and stability to the back line. Phillips, with years at the top-flight and loan experience at Derby County, arrived with the expectation he would anchor Mason’s new system.
Shortly after, George Campbell, a 23-year-old central defender from CF Montreal, was secured for £1million. Reports highlighted Campbell’s athleticism and ability to read the game, qualities Mason values as he looks to reduce the number of goals conceded last campaign.
Yet, the most high-profile signing was Norwegian striker Aune Heggebo from SK Brann, arriving for a reported £4.75million. With a decent goal-scoring record in Norway, Heggebo provides competition and support for established forwards Josh Maja and Daryl Dike while boosting depth up front. The club hopes the trio of new recruits will help transform near-misses into crucial victories.
Who Has Departed The Hawthorns?
Several exits marked the opening weeks of the window. Grady Diangana and John Swift left on free transfers, Swift joining Portsmouth and Diangana seeking new challenges. Semi Ajayi, a mainstay in previous line-ups, moved to Hull City, while Gianluca Frabotta’s departure freed up a valuable overseas squad spot due to FA regulations.
Other departures included Ted Cann, Ronnie Hollingshead, Archie Kirton, Matt Richards, Sam Beedie, and Fran Cherchi, most leaving as free agents or on loan to lower-league sides. The club also saw veteran defender Kyle Bartley retire, ending an era for one of the squad’s elder statesmen.
These changes have brought the wage bill down and set the stage for younger players and new faces to step up. Mason and his backroom staff are keenly aware that fresh energy is needed if Albion are to improve on last season’s ninth-place finish.
Financial Snapshot: Spending and Savings
The numbers tell their own story. With a total spend of £8.75million and no significant income from player sales, this window reflects the club’s determination to invest in talent and rebuild rather than pinch pennies. West Brom’s owners, despite concerns about Profit and Sustainability regulations, have opened their wallets enough to allow Mason to shape his squad.
Transfer fees have been moderate but impactful, with deals completed for both international and domestic talents. These investments underscore the board’s ambition to secure promotion sooner rather than later.
The Strategic Approach: Overseas Markets and Domestic Talent
The departure of Gianluca Frabotta opened an Elite Significant Contribution (ESC) spot. Thanks to recent FA changes, Championship clubs can sign up to four non-UK players who might not meet the Governing Body Endorsement criteria. This gives Mason flexibility to pursue promising overseas talent, deepening the pool of options available.
While the club has missed out on some targets and seen transfer activity slow in recent weeks, there is ongoing speculation about midfield reinforcements. Mason’s links with Tottenham could drive potential loan signings, as the club aims to bolster its squad without overspending.
Among rumoured targets is a midfielder likened to Manchester City’s Rodri, indicating a continued focus on technical, possession-based football. There is also chatter about South Korean forward Jeon Jin-woo, though reports suggest that deal may not materialise before the window closes.
Expert Perspectives and Fan Sentiment
Pundits see Mason’s transfer business as measured and purposeful. The signings fit the club’s medium-term ambition, avoiding panicked splurges and aiming instead for steady improvement. Former managers and ex-players have expressed cautious optimism that, if Mason is backed further during the window, West Brom can challenge for a play-off position.
Supporters have greeted the new arrivals with hope but remain aware the squad still needs fine-tuning. Defensive depth, midfield creativity, and another attacking option are high on fans’ wish lists. Ultimately, progress in the transfer window will be judged alongside early results in the Championship, where every point is precious in the race for promotion.
Looking Ahead: Last-Minute Deals and Closing Challenges
With weeks left in the summer window, West Brom are expected to remain active. There are ongoing discussions about reinforcing midfield and attack before the deadline. Missing out on several targets has frustrated fans, but the club’s management continues to scour the European and domestic markets for value-for-money solutions.
Mason’s ability to use his Tottenham connections may yet yield important loan signings. In addition, the club’s openness to signing overseas players could bring exciting talents to The Hawthorns, especially as the ESC system allows for more flexibility.
Conclusion
West Bromwich Albion’s transfer window has signalled ambition and a readiness for change. By investing in proven Championship performers and talented overseas prospects, the club is looking to break out of the mid-table pack and recapture its place in the Premier League. Departures have trimmed the squad and left room for new faces, while the arrivals thus far have added depth and promise.
Ryan Mason’s reign is only beginning, but his first summer window shows careful planning and a clear desire to restore Albion’s competitive edge. As the new season unfolds, eyes in the West Midlands and across the country will follow Albion’s fortunes keenly, hoping that smart transfer activity will deliver the success their loyal supporters crave.
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